It is with profound sadness that the family announces the passing of Shawn McNamara (66) on Monday, October 31st, 2022, at Sudbury Health Sciences North.
Beloved husband of 43 years to Diane (nee Clement). Proud and loving father to Ryan (Tara), Stacey (Chris), and Kailey (Tyler). Cherished Papa to Hannah, Alexander, Callei, Gavin, Conall and Kian. Son of Alexander and Leona McNamara (nee Callaghan), both predeceased. Brother to Dale (Donna), Erin (Jo Anne), Brian, Neil (Louise) and Kerry (predeceased). Survived by many nieces and nephews. Longtime friend of John MacBride, Larry Furmanic and Dennis Holmes.
Shawn grew up in Garson and worked at the Sudbury Airport where he met the love of his life, Diane. They married in 1979 and went on to have 3 children. Shawn spent many years working at Domtar and Northern Breweries to master his trades craft. Recently, he retired from Science North and Dynamic Earth, where he was a cherished colleague to many. Shawn was a hard worker who would never shy away from a challenge. He had a wealth of knowledge and a special ability to solve almost any problem. Although he was a Millwright, he was THE Jack-of-All-Trades. He would be the first to step up and lend a hand. On any given day, he could be found in his garage tinkering away on something new with F1 races playing in the background. Shawn also had a love of hockey that was passed onto his kids and grandkids. "Boxing Day Hockey" was his favorite tradition. His family and friends would gather in his garage, watch the World Juniors, and play road hockey. Those lucky enough to have known Shawn were blessed with his sarcastic charm. Although Shawn was a realist, he would always look for the positive in every situation. His sense of humor was unmatched, and it was something everyone truly cherished. Just like he dealt with all experiences in life, Shawn managed his illness with strength and grace, and wanted to spend as much time with his loved ones as possible. On his final days, he was surrounded by his family, who he adored more than anything else in the world. The family would like to take a moment to thank the wonderful Home Care Nurses and the Staff at the HSN Cancer Treatment Center.
In keeping with his wishes, there will be no service. However, a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.
So sad to hear of Shawn’s passing. He was a kind, genuine person with a deep love for his family. My sincere condolences to his family and all who knew him. He will be missed and fondly remembered by all those whose lives he touched.
November 17, 2022
My sincere sympathies to Shawn’s family. Like so many others, I’m so saddened to hear of his passing. I had the privilege of working with him for many years. Shawn was a truly warm and genuine person with a great wit. His sense of humour always brightened my day. The world was a better place because of Shawn.
November 8, 2022
Shawn was such an incredible co-worker at Science North. I loved joking with him every day, but most of all I loved learning from him. He was always there to lend a hand, teach a new skill, and help me navigate the world of everything from plumbing to building. He was instrumental in keeping exhibits and our animal care systems working in tip top shape. We miss him dearly and I will miss his friendship. All my condolences to Diane, his children and grand children – he loved you all so much and never stopped talking about you.
November 8, 2022
We waited each morning for the daily highlight of Shawn’s positive attitude, jokes and all around great attitude. It was an honour to have had the chance to work with him.
Sympathies to the family and friends.
November 8, 2022
Shawn was a beloved colleague and friend to so many at Science North and will be greatly missed. His presence will be forever felt across his Science North family. Thoughts and prayers to Diane and family.
November 8, 2022
My deepest condolences to the entire McNamara family for your loss. I grew up in Skead Road across the highway from the McNamara home and had the distinct pleasure and privilege of being invited into their family to spend many days and evenings with the boys, even being allowed to cheer for my Montreal Canadiens in a Bruin household. The entire family holds a special place in my heart and is never far away in thoughts. I am so sorry for your loss.
November 8, 2022
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Hoping that the support of loved ones brings you comfort during this sad time.
November 8, 2022
Our deepest condolences, my husband Mike said if you got to be a McNamara….it doesn’t get much better than that!
November 8, 2022
Our condolences go out to the entire McNamara Family! Being brought up on Skead Road we all knew each other and treated each other with respect. We were like a big Family, we all had each others back! RIP
November 7, 2022
I’m so sorry to hear the news. We’re thinking of you from Thunder Bay and sending you all Strength in these rough times. Just remember he will always be with you. Remember the good times you all had. Cherish those memories. A lot of days will be hard but remember he always wanted you all to smile
He loved you all so much.
November 7, 2022
I had the good fortune to work with Shawn at Science North. Even when things were busy, he still smiled and joked. My sympathies to his loved ones.
November 7, 2022
Deepest Condolences to Diane and the complete McNamara family. Sending prayers for healing.🙏🙏💞
November 7, 2022
Diane and Family and all the McNamara Family, we are thinking of you during this difficult time.
November 7, 2022
To Diane and family,
I was so sorry to hear of Shawn’s passing. Condolences to the family.
Kaz
November 7, 2022
Diane and family, and all of the McNamaras: we were so sad to hear of Shawn’s passing. He was always there to help people out and we loved his sense of humour. Sending hugs and prayers.
November 7, 2022
So sorry to hear of your loss. Only met him once but if he was a McNamara I have a good idea about the importance of family and sense of humour.
November 7, 2022
Expressing condolences to Diane McNamara and family over the recent passing away of Shawn. Believe me and I know first hand if you had a friend in Shawn, you had a friend for life. Miss you
November 7, 2022
Our hearts go out to Diane & family.
November 7, 2022